Chomp: A Shark Romp

PreS-Gr 2--From gentle giants to fierce hunters, sharks vary in size, color, appetite, and habitat, making the underwater dwellers distinct in each depiction. As readers swim alongside each shark illustrated, they will learn that many sharks have unique personalities and habits, making it safer to see them from afar in an aquarium than in the wild. The text within the nonfiction narrative is uncomplicated, leaving room for children to absorb the labeled illustrations that are simultaneously simple and realistic. Although Paul implies we should not swim with sharks, kids can visit many of them at aquariums. Paul also offers a picture glossary in both the front and back of the book. Fans of his Roar: A Dinosaur Tour and the "Baby Shark" song will enjoy learning about the sharks that live under the ocean's surface. VERDICT A strong choice for early elementary nonfiction shelves and a vibrant exploration of different types of sharks.--Hilary Tufo, Columbus Metropolitan Library-Reynoldsburg